Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has sounded a strong warning over what he described as an alarming rise in child abductions across Maharashtra, alleging the existence of organised gangs systematically targeting young children. In a detailed letter addressed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Thackeray questioned the government’s priorities and accused it of failing to act decisively on a grave public safety issue.
Thackeray expressed concern that while the state legislature remains occupied with financial approvals during the winter session, crimes involving children continue to escalate unchecked. Citing official crime data, he pointed out a sharp increase in reported child abduction cases over the past few years, calling the trend deeply disturbing and unacceptable for a state of Maharashtra’s stature.
According to Thackeray, many of these cases involve interstate criminal networks that kidnap children and force them into exploitative activities such as bonded labour and begging. He alleged that these groups operate with alarming ease, raising serious questions about enforcement, intelligence gathering, and coordination between agencies.
The MNS leader criticised the government for projecting recovery figures as a success while ignoring the lasting psychological and physical harm suffered by rescued children. He argued that rescue alone cannot be treated as justice, stressing that the trauma endured by victims requires long-term rehabilitation and monitoring.
Thackeray also questioned how children continue to be seen begging openly in cities and towns, urging the authorities to verify their identities and origins. He suggested that modern identification methods, including scientific verification if required, should be used to ensure children are not victims of trafficking or abduction.
Calling for immediate political attention, Thackeray demanded that issues such as missing children, child abductions, and crimes against minors be taken up as priority subjects in the state legislative assembly. He criticised what he described as a routine-driven approach during the winter session, where key debates are sidelined and ministers are often absent during discussions.
He further urged the Maharashtra government to work closely with central agencies to dismantle trafficking networks and put preventive mechanisms in place. Thackeray concluded by stating that the people of Maharashtra expect more than statements in the House — they expect visible, firm action on the ground to protect the state’s children and restore public confidence in governance.
